ABUJA: The Federal Government has launched the 2026 free eye screening programme for civil servants across the country as part of efforts to improve health and boost productivity in the public service.
The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, declared the programme open on Thursday in Abuja, describing it as a key initiative aimed at strengthening staff welfare and occupational health.
The screening programme, organised by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service in collaboration with the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation, was held at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.
Walson-Jack said good eyesight was essential for productivity and effective service delivery in government.
“Vision is not only about leadership; good eyesight is fundamental to effective performance,” she said.
She noted that the programme was first introduced in 2024 and expanded following its positive impact, with 2,329 civil servants benefiting from professional eye screening, diagnosis and treatment in 2025.
The Head of Service commended the foundation, the medical team and volunteers for their commitment to providing accessible and quality eye care.
Also speaking, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, described the initiative as timely and significant, noting that it aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on human capital development and social investment.
She urged civil servants to take advantage of the programme, stressing that preventive healthcare improves productivity and contributes to a healthier and more efficient public service.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation, Mr Shravan Kasam, said the programme was launched on the 100th day of the Head of Service’s tenure and highlighted the organisation’s 30-year commitment to healthcare, sanitation and vision care.
Kasam said the foundation operates hospitals in Abuja, Kebbi and Calabar, providing eye care services and surgeries.
He added that more than 4,700 civil servants were screened through outreach programmes last year.
He urged Nigerians to prioritise regular eye examinations, stressing that early detection helps prevent avoidable blindness and improves quality of life.
Mr Ibrahim Baru, Chairman of the Association of Senior Civil Servants, Labour Ministry branch, welcomed participants and commended the Head of Service for creating a supportive and health-conscious work environment.
